It is six months since the beginning of the on-road field evaluation programme of the 10 Daily hybrid diesel-electric, that Iveco supplied to FedEx Express, the world’s largest express air delivery company, and the moment has arrived to publicise the first results of this activity.

The results of these field evaluation were presented at Palazzo Marino, in Milan, during a press conference attended by Ottavio Gioglio, General Manager Iveco Italian Market, Renato Carrara, Managing Director Operations Mediterranean District, FedEx Express and the Councillor responsible for Mobility, Transport and the Environment of the Municipality of Milan, Edoardo Croci.

Over the first six months of the trial, which will continue until May 2010, each vehicle covered an average of 7,900 km with a 26.5 percent reduction in fuel consumption and a total decrease in CO2 emissions of 7.5 tons when compared with a fleet made up of traditional vehicles. These results were made possible by sophisticated control systems and functions such as the Stop & Start, which allows the vehicle to start in electric mode and brake with energy recovery.

“Iveco is strongly committed to the development of this technology. The results of the test are visible sign of our commitment to driving the change by promoting a sustainable innovation,” stated Ottavio Gioglio, General Manager Iveco Italian Market. “The results of this new investment confirm the ongoing commitment of FedEx Express to making hybrid truck technology a reality. FedEx Express was the first company to invest in commercially deployable hybrids and is now operating a large number of hybrid vehicles around the globe,” added Renato Carrara, Managing Director Operations, FedEx Express Italy.

The Iveco vans have demonstrated they have the essential characteristics needed for commercial use. Following specific training using the vehicles, FedEx Express drivers have been overwhelmingly positive in their praise for the performance, functionality, and ease-of-use of the vehicles. The drivers have also expressed their pride at being able to contribute to safeguarding the environment while doing their everyday job.

Iveco worked closely with FedEx Express in the development of the hybrid diesel-electric Iveco Daily, which showcases technology new to light commercial vehicles. FedEx Express is also the first company to test the technology in vehicles which are designed to stand up to the tough demands of express delivery in crowded urban environments.